Starting a group
So you’d like to be part of a book club or reading group but you're not sure where to start?
There are so many ways to connect to other readers.
When we say ‘book club’ or ‘reading group’, most of us think of the informal group of friends who gather every month or so to discuss a common book, but that’s not the only way.
You could join a book club of people you’ve never met before. There’s probably a book club at your local library.
Why not join our book club register? You'll become a member of the Good Reading Book Club and receive a free e-newsletter each month, be able to share your thoughts with other book clubs, access book club resources, be able to enter exclusive competitions and more!
Connecting to other readers could be as simple as joining gr’s ‘pass it on’ project or writing a letter to the editor, recommending something wonderful you’ve just read.
You could chat about books you’ve loved, hated or are currently reading on our facebook fan page with other readers. Why not become a Facebook fan of gr.
You can download discussion notes online (have a look on our website for some) or you can just talk about what you liked or didn’t like about a book. This should be one forum where you can discuss religion and politics, but be respectful of each other’s views!
Some gr readers have been members of book clubs for 50 years or more, and the formats vary as widely as the members. You’re only limited by your imagination.
If you find it hard to get out to meet with a group why not join an online book club or reading group? You could be talking to fellow readers from the other side of the world. Check out the online reading groups ads to see if there a virtual group for you to join.
Another good place to look is your local library or bookshop. Many libraries have noticeboards with details of groups to join. Some bookshops have a space to meet and a convener to help the discussion along. You might even get a discount if you regularly buy multiple copies from the same store. It’s always worth asking! Check out our booksellers directory to find a bookshop near you.
Where to meet and what to do
Anywhere your group can talk without shouting is a good place to meet. Most groups meet in each other’s homes while others try cafes, restaurants, libraries or bookshops. Why not pop a blanket under one arm and a bottle of wine under the other, and head for the park?
Some groups like more structured meetings, but there are no rules, so do what works for you. You may wish to bring along some discussion notes to help stimulate the talk or you may prefer to have each member comment first then let the chat flow. Whatever you find suits your group will work. Never be afraid to say what you think, there is no right or wrong – just your likes and dislikes.
If the book under discussion has a theme – for instance, if it has an unusual setting or is set in the past – why not dress up to match the time or place, or cook some food from the country it’s set in to share? Have fun with themes and your meetings will be all the more enjoyable.
Join our Reading Groups Register and you will be able to access reading group discussion notes, receive information about books and share in great prizes!
Book Selection
Some groups have a different member select the book each month. Others prefer the members of the group to bring along recommendations and through discussion everyone agrees on one book from the selection offered. But again, do whatever suits the group.
It’s important to be open to trying new genres, you might be pleasantly surprised.
Here on the Good Reading website we have provided a list of suggested titles that are great for reading groups. Firstly because we think they're a good read, and secondly because they will stimulate good lively discussion.
Finally
Once you have a group, or if you are already a member of a group, we’d love to hear from you. Why not write up synopsis of your group’s opinions of ANY book your group has read? If we publish it in the magazine you could win a package of books! Click here to write your review.
If you, or members of your group, would like to suggest any changes and further additions to our website that you would find helpful email your thoughts to publisher@goodreadingmagazine.com.au.
We look forward to hearing from you!